ABB to construct $900mn Agra-North East power superhighway

Power and automation technology group ABB has been selected by Power Grid Corp of India Ltd (PGCIL) to deliver an ultra-high-voltage, direct-current (UHVDC) transmission system. The $900 million power superhighway will connect hydro power sources in the country's north-east to a distribution centre at the north Indian town of Agra, the city that houses the famed mausoleum, the Taj Mahal.

The 1,728km power superhighway, worth almost $1 billion, will be built by ABB in India, and will deliver a high-voltage transmission system to supply hydropower to the city and its environs.

The contract will involve ABB as well as state-owned Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL).

HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) technology is meant for transmitting bulk power over long distances by overhead transmission lines or submarine cables. It is also used to interconnect separate power systems, where traditional alternating current (AC) connections cannot be used.

The ultra high-voltage direct current link operating at 800Kv will have a converter capacity of 8,000 megawatts – which will be the highest ever built. Using ultra high voltage minimises transmission losses and also boosts efficiency.

Commenting on the project, Peter Leupp, head of ABB's power systems division, said: ''The North-East-Agra transmission link sets a new standard in ultrahigh-voltage power transmission and underlines ABB's global leadership in HVDC technology. We are pleased to continue supporting India in the development of its power infrastructure.